THE United States President Joe Biden has sent best wishes to Solomon Islands on its hosting of the 17th Pacific Games and to all the sporting contingents from the Pacific region participating in the sporting event.
This was conveyed by the Charge d’affaires of the US Embassy in Solomon Islands Russell Comeau at a welcoming ceremony for the United States Navy Ship (USNS) Mercy yesterday.
Representing Solomon Islands Government at the event was the Minister of the 17th Pacific Games, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, the Acting Governor General Sir John Patteson Oti and the Minister of Foreign Affairs & External Trade Jeremiah Manele.
Mr Comeau said President Biden and the Secretary of State Antony Blinken US sent best wishes on behalf of the people of America to Solomon Islands as it hosts the games and also the Pacific nations/territories that are participating in the games.
He said the US is pleased to contribute towards making this year’s Pacific Games possible and also extended its gratitude to the many donor partners who contributed towards this accomplishment.
“Such a global outpouring is a testament to the love and commitment that countless many of us have for Solomon Islands and the greater Pacific community.
“The US is honored to play a critical role in this effort – Pacific Games – through the Pacific Partnership 2024 and all the capabilities the USNS Mercy can offer.”
He said the Pacific Partnership through the USNS Mercy embodies a spirit of friendship, cooperation and goodwill – essentially the best of the American people and the partner nations who serve on the mission – and furthermore, it embodies the spirit of the Pacific Games.
Charge d’affaires Comeau said it is his deep hope that over the next two weeks, people from the region and the world can take a moment to marvel at the Pacific Games because nothing promotes peace and understanding more than sports.
He also took the opportunity to extend gratitude to the crew of USNS Mercy, his embassy team, international partners, Solomon Islands Government and all those who worked tirelessly to make this second USNS Mercy visit and the 17th Pacific Games a reality.
“May this partnership continue to flourish, bring hope, healing and resilience to the people of Solomon Islands,” he added.
By DELI OSO
Solomon Star, Honiara
